Hi, Sue Vertue here. As many of you are aware, we'll soon be embarking on our first London leg of filming for series 3. I'm also aware that there is quite a lot of speculation about where we're shooting when. I can't stress how much we the producers and Benedict [Cumberbatch], Martin [Freeman] and the rest of the cast appreciate your love and dedication to our show - we'll endeavour to live up to your expectations for Series 3.

What I am nervous about is that our London shooting schedule is punishing and will really give us very little time to interact with you. The actors really hope you understand that.

Also, and I know this is probably asking a lot, the majority of fans and indeed ourselves would REALLY appreciate it if you didn't post pictures or spoilers or ideally our daily locations.

Thanks for your understanding. Sue x

The first episode of the third series is called The Empty Hearse. It has been written by Mark Gatiss and the director is Jeremy Lovering, with Amanda Abbington joining the cast in a role described by the BBC as one "that significantly impacts upon the lives of John and Sherlock." Abbington, whose character name has not yet been announced, is the partner of Martin Freeman, who plays Watson.